Pig farmers respond to new welfare standards
Pig farmers are cautiously welcoming new animal welfare standards announced by the Government last week.
The competitions celebrate New Zealand's finest home-grown pork products and help customers identify and appreciate sustainable pork, bacon and ham which is PigCare Accredited.
The competitions support the country's pig farmers who raise pork solely for New Zealanders.
This year a new category has been introduced – 'Convenient Pork'. Butchers are given the chance to create a great value, simple, yet tasty pork product for people who need a quick and easy week-day meal solution.
An independent panel of 32 judges - leading chefs, food connoisseurs and master butchers - will blind-taste each entry on July 1.
Judging under international rules begins with a 100-point scale and focuses on attributes of aroma, texture, appearance, saltiness, sweetness and overall tastiness.
NZPork are grateful to their judges, many whom return each year, claiming that there's no better pastime than to eat pork all day.
NZPork is proud to host the ninth annual event. "Competition is fierce to claim top awards. It is exciting to see the end results from skilled butchers applying their craft to a product our farmers have taken great pride in producing, " says Ian Carter, NZPork chair.
Entries for the 100% New Zealand Pork, Bacon & Ham Competitions close on June 10 and can be entered online at http://www.pork.co.nz/2016-competition. The awards presentation is on July 25 in Christchurch.
